Assange looks towards Senate in speech

Andrew Drummond, AAP London Correspondent

Julian Assange has championed his Australian political aspirations during a public address in London.

The WikiLeaks founder on Thursday appeared on a balcony of the Ecuadorian embassy, which he entered six months ago seeking asylum.

The 41-year-old Australian spoke of his secret-leaking website's "achievements" in 2012 and plans for 2013, including a further one million documents ready for release.

"In Australia, an unelected senator will be replaced by one that is elected," Assange said of his recent announcement he would stand for a Senate seat at the 2013 election.

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Assange criticised the Australian government's lack of support for the "freedom-fighting" actions of WikiLeaks, which he said remains under investigation by the US Department of Justice.

"My work will not be bowed. While this immoral investigation continues and while the Australian government will not defend the journalism and publishing of WikiLeaks, I must remain here," Assange said.

Although granted asylum by Ecuador in August, if Assange steps outside the embassy he will be arrested by British police who maintain a round-the-clock guard on the building.

He is subject to an extradition order that would send him to Sweden to answer sexual assault allegations, which he denies.

He fears being sent to the US to be questioned over his whistle-blowing website.

Queensland-born Assange's speech was broken at times by a raspy cough.

He has said previously that his health has suffered from being confined to a small room at the embassy, with limited natural light and fresh air.

A crowd of hundreds gathered to hear Assange.

"Good evening London," he said.

"What a sight for sore eyes. People ask what gives me hope. Well, the answer is right here," he added, acknowledging his loyal following.

Assange thanked his Ecuadorian hosts and made special mention of Bradley Manning, the US soldier arrested over the leaking of military information to WikiLeaks.